There’s nothing like a fresh start, whether it’s in our writing or exercise routines.
And New Year’s is the mother of all fresh starts, wiping clean the slates we’ve muddied all year. What’s not to love about January first?
You’ll notice some fresh starts with this issue of The Prairie Wind, as new contributors lend their voices to the conversation.
Welcome the amazing Jenny Meyerhoff, who takes over the Writer’s Bookshelf column from Brenda Ferber. But we don’t have to say goodbye to Brenda, thank goodness. Her enriching perspective on writing continues with a new column, Book Look, which will dissect a new children’s book each issue and examine what makes it a standout.
Cheryl Bardoe is another member who joins The Prairie Wind this issue, jumping in to edit and massage copy for the newsletter. She’s a true gift from Santa!
You’ll hear from Pamela Dell in Tales From the Front, as she prepares for the start of her new series for Spider magazine. And Laura Crawford takes a turn contributing, writing the Someone You Should Know column on Prairie State Award winner Sally Walker. We’re so grateful for their willingness to contribute!
Teresa Owens Smith takes a turn as a columnist this issue, addressing the pros and cons of online vs. face-to-face critique groups. And Tabitha Olson settles into her new role as our News Roundup columnist, keeping all of us up-to-date on the happenings in the world of children’s literature.
Jim Danielson and Barb Rosenstock earn our eternal gratitude for stepping in as correspondents for the Fly on the Wall feature, sharing insights for those who could not attend area events.
And members Beth Finke and Amy Timberlake graciously share their stories in this issue’s Op/Ed section, relating their unique and marvelous journeys.
Once again, I think we’ve got a great issue packed with information by and about you!
So thanks to everyone, from our regular writers to these new voices, for making it miraculously happen again and again!
Here’s to a fantastic 2008!
Kate Hannigan
